Learning and exchange: co-hosting a seminar ahead of summer meetings at the IMO

11 May

We were thrilled to support the Royal Thai Embassy in London earlier this week in hosting a seminar on IMO greenhouse gas developments ahead of MEPC 80.

Held at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) headquarters, the event included speakers from across the UN, academia, industry and the public sector.

H.E. Mr. Thani Thongphakdi, Ambassador of Thailand to the UK, welcomed participants in-person and online from a range of London-based Diplomatic Missions and their capitals. In his opening speech, Mr. Thani Thongphakdi noted the importance of international collaboration as we head towards the IMO meetings.

“Thailand believes we all need to better understand what's on the negotiation table. This is essential if we are to contribute constructively and make appropriate decisions,” he said. “With this in mind, this seminar is designed to help participants digest all the necessary information in the hope that it will help facilitate future negotiations.”

The seminar presented a holistic view of the work being done by the IMO to address the climate crisis. It also highlighted the importance of ensuring an equitable transition to a zero-emissions shipping sector that leaves no country behind, and must particularly consider the needs of developing countries.

It was fantastic to see the seminar so well attended, and the atmosphere in the room was positive, inquisitive, and highly-collaborative.

Providing expert information

The aim of the event was to provide all country delegations with the time and space to come together, learn and exchange knowledge on this subject. We were keen to provide expert information that can support countries in their preparations for the important summer meetings at the IMO.

This July, the 80th session of the IMO’s Maritime Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 80) will adopt a revised Strategy for greenhouse gas emissions for international shipping.

This means that climate deliberations at the UN agency for international shipping are at a crucial stage. The forthcoming meetings in London are of the utmost importance for governments all over the world as the sector urgently needs to get in line with the Paris Agreement temperature goals of 1.5°C.

*Pictured: Delegates and speakers network during the coffee break.*

Advancing towards an equitable transition

A wide range of interventions and points of view were presented. By the end of the day, it was clear that an equitable transition for the shipping sector, in line with the Paris Agreement, is possible.

This summer, IMO Member States have a unique opportunity to change the course of international climate action. This event was one step in the right direction towards that common goal.

We would like to extend our thanks to the Royal Thai Embassy in the United Kingdom for their commitment and collaboration in co-hosting the event. And of course, to a brilliant panel of speakers for sharing their knowledge and information and helping to raise awareness and understanding ahead of MEPC 80.

“To make this seminar possible, Thailand has worked closely with Opportunity Green,” said H.E. Mr. Thani Thongphakdi. “I commend their tireless work in advancing equitable transition in shipping and their support to climate vulnerable countries at the IMO.”